1952 Topps #40 Irv Noren Black Back PSA EX 5

1952 Topps #40 Irv Noren Black Back PSA 5 - A Future Yankee in Washington Colors

The 1952 Topps #40 Irv Noren catches the talented outfielder at an interesting crossroads in his career. Noren had established himself with the Washington Senators after an impressive 1950 rookie campaign, and his strong play soon attracted the attention of the powerhouse New York Yankees. During the 1952 season, he was dealt to New York and immediately found himself in the middle of a championship race.

This example is graded PSA EX 5 and features the Black Back variation. The card still pictures Noren with Washington, preserving the moment just before his career took a dramatic turn. Within months of the card’s release, he would be sharing a clubhouse with Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, and Phil Rizzuto.

Noren became a valuable piece of the Yankees dynasty, earning an All-Star selection in 1954 and appearing on World Series championship clubs in 1952, 1953, and 1956. He later added another championship as a coach with the 1972 Oakland Athletics. The 1952 Topps Irv Noren Black Back PSA 5 is especially compelling because of its timing—Washington on the card, New York in his immediate future, and three Yankees rings still waiting ahead.